1. Contain Boyd

Ohio State has made workmanlike quarterbacks such as Wisconsin’s Joel Stave and Michigan State’s Connor Cook look like elite quarterbacks this season. Now the Buckeyes really are playing against one of the best. Tajh Boyd is a threat as a passer and runner. The Buckeyes must pressure Boyd, and pass protection has been an issue at times for Clemson.

2. Cover Watkins

Sammy Watkins is considered perhaps the top wide receiver prospect in the 2014 NFL draft if he enters. Blessed with superb speed and hands, Watkins has 85 catches for 1,237 yards and 10 touchdowns. The Buckeyes would like to match up Bradley Roby against Watkins as often as possible, but Roby’s status is uncertain because of a leg-bone bruise.

3. Create turnovers

Clemson committed four turnovers against Florida State and six against South Carolina. Not surprisingly, those are the Tigers’ losses. In Clemson’s 10 victories, the Tigers turned the ball over only 12 times total. Ohio State has been only so-so at forcing turnovers with 22. Given the likelihood that Clemson will be able to move the ball on a Buckeyes defense that was shaky late in the season, being able to stop drives with takeaways could be crucial.

4. Crank up passing game

Ohio State’s late-season passing woes were largely attributed to adverse weather. But the Buckeyes completed only eight passes against Michigan State in the Big Ten championship game at the domed Lucas Oil Stadium, which showed that the progress Braxton Miller and his supporting cast had made had stalled. The Buckeyes became predictable by becoming overly reliant on deep passes and swings. Throwing intermediate passes and using the middle of the field will be important.

5. Remember the workhorse

Carlos Hyde has been close to unstoppable this season, averaging almost 8 yards per carry. He got only 18 carries against Michigan State and many wondered why he didn’t get more. Clemson’s run defense is in the middle of the pack statistically, and using Hyde to maintain possession also might be the best way to neutralize Clemson’s offense.